Little has changed at Calke Abbey since the mid-Twenties. Peeling paintwork and overgrown courtyards are but echoes of a more prosperous time for one of England’s aristocratic and eccentric families.

Outside is the gardeners’ bothy, with tools and pots just as they were left. Wander through the beautiful yet faded walled gardens, the kitchen garden and the orangery, soaking up the time-stood-still atmosphere.

Afterwards explore the beautiful deer-studded parkland of ponds, pasture and ancient oaks – a National Nature Reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest, all now in the safe care of England’s National Trust.